The article highlights the rise of alternative facts and the rejection of established scientific truths. It emphasizes the dangers of misinformation, illustrated by absurd conspiracy theories. The author argues that while individuals may find entertainment in such narratives, they hinder society's ability to address real problems. The text warns against the self-deception that accompanies accepting falsehoods, referencing Carl Sagan's insight into humanity’s unwillingness to face uncomfortable truths. It calls for unified recognition of factual truths to enable productive discourse and action against pressing challenges.
One of the saddest lessons of history is this: If we've been bamboozled long enough, we tend to reject any evidence of the bamboozle.
Many of civilization's greatest successes have come from realistically assessing our dilemmas and tackling them, but that can only occur if we all begin on the same factual footing.
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